In a move that left horse racing fans fuming, NBC abruptly cut its live coverage of the 2026 Kentucky Derby just moments after the historic finish, switching to NBA playoff action and missing the iconic garland of roses ceremony.

The controversy erupted right after Golden Tempo crossed the finish line, making Cherie DeVaux the first female trainer to win the Derby and giving jockey Jose Ortiz his first victory in the "Run for the Roses." But instead of showing the traditional draping of the winning horse with the blanket of red roses in the Winner's Circle, NBC shifted to Game 7 of the 76ers-Celtics playoff series.

The timing couldn't have been worse. The NBA game, scheduled for a 7:30 p.m. Eastern tip-off in Boston, ran up against the Derby festivities running late. Viewers who tuned in for the "greatest two minutes in sports" were left watching basketball warm-ups instead of witnessing history.

Social media erupted with frustration. One fan posted, "What The Bloody Hell???! @nbc Cuts Away From Draping the Blanket of Red Roses on The Incredible Kentucky Derby Win…??? For The First Few Minutes of Basketball?" Another called the network's decision a "total, complete disgrace," noting they skipped the first female trainer's victory celebration, post-race interviews, and the iconic photo opportunities that make the Derby so special.

Even basketball fans weren't spared, having endured a delayed start to their playoff coverage. It was a rare moment where both the horse racing and NBA communities found common ground—in their disappointment with NBC's scheduling choices.

For those who love the traditions of horse racing, the garland of roses ceremony is more than just a photo op—it's the emotional climax of the Derby experience. Missing it left a sour taste that no amount of playoff basketball could wash away.